Thursday, May 23, 2019

Third Year in a Row Hyundai Title Sponsors the Event in South Florida that Includes the World-Class Hyundai Air & Sea Show

Peter Berg to Produce a One-Hour TV Special with Footage from the Event that Airs Nationally May 26 on USA Network

Hyundai Doubles its Military Incentive to $1,000 on all Hyundai Vehicles through June 3

U.S. Veterans Magazine Names Hyundai One of the Nation’s Best of the Best Top Veteran-Friendly Companies

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., May 23, 2019 – The National Salute to America’s Heroes presented by Hyundai returns to Miami Beach this Memorial Day weekend on May 25-26, 2019. Now in its third year, the patriotic two-day event is designed to pay tribute and honor military and first responders. The event combines the Hyundai Air & Sea Show with the Music Explosion presented by Hyundai and countless interactive displays creating a family-friendly experience for everyone.

New this year, a one-hour television show executive produced by Peter Berg, Gold Star Tribute: A National Salute to America’s Heroes, airs nationally on the USA Network on Sunday, May 26, 2019 with powerful footage from the Hyundai Air & Sea Show intertwined with heroic stories, bringing the message of remembrance and sacrifice to a national audience.

“We’ve been part of the National Salute to America’s Heroes since its debut in 2017 because it’s very close to our hearts at Hyundai to honor our military and first responders for their service,” said Dean Evans, CMO, Hyundai Motor America. “We are grateful for the partnership with the U.S. Armed Forces and together our mission is to make this event the largest national celebration of Memorial Day in the country. Bringing on Peter Berg to tell the heroic stories of our country’s service members is an important and significant enhancement this year. This partnership continues Hyundai’s long-term commitment to recognize the sacrifices our service men and women make to defend our country.”

“It is thanks to the support of Hyundai that we are able to create an event that honors and pays its respects to the men and women of our military and first responders,” said Mickey Markoff, president and executive producer, National Salute to America’s Heroes. “There is no better time than Memorial Day weekend to pay tribute to our military, first responders, and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our freedom.”

National Salute to America’s Heroes Event DetailsThe National Salute to America’s Heroes is anchored by the Hyundai Air & Sea Show, The Greatest Show Above the Earth™. The air show is headlined by the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, and is a showcase for the men, women, technology and equipment from all five branches of the U.S. military, police, firefighter and first responder agencies. The Memorial Day weekend event also includes the Music Explosion presented by Hyundai on the sands of South Beach on the evening of May 26 with performances including Young Musicians Unite, the U.S. Army’s As You Were band, the U.S. Air Force’s Max Impact band, the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team, Andre Archat, LV The Artist and culminating with international pop sensation Flo Rida.

Experiential activations are centered at Lummus Park, spanning more than four city blocks on Ocean Drive and will include the Hyundai Hangar, a patriotically inspired consumer lounge honoring the military and first responders. The Hyundai Hangar, located between 12th and 13th Street, will feature a collaborative chalkboard memorial wall for messages to family and friends who have served and other interactive activities and themed giveaways. Hyundai will also have several other activations communicating its built in the U.S. story and vehicle displays throughout the area, including specially-wrapped Hyundai Konas honoring each branch of the U.S. Armed Services, the all-new Palisade SUV, all-new 2020 Sonata, the Santa Fe and Tucson SUVs and the performance Veloster N.

The National Salute to America’s Heroes presented by Hyundai debuted in 2017 along the shores of Miami Beach to a daily crowd of more than 100,000 spectators. The 2019 nationally recognized event is expected to be even more exciting, with a larger spectator viewing area and a free-to-the-public Display Village, Action Zone and Kids Zone, all located between 11th and 14th Streets along Ocean Drive, which will include interactive displays from military service branches and corporate partners.

Special beach-access tickets for the Hyundai Air & Sea Show and the Music Explosion presented by Hyundai can be obtained at local Hyundai dealerships in South Florida.

USA Network TV SpecialThe highly anticipated one-hour television show, Gold Star Tribute: A National Salute to America’s Heroes, airs nationally on the USA Network on Sunday, May 26, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. (all time zones), capturing the best moments from the weekend in Miami Beach. Executive produced by the popular actor, writer, producer and director Peter Berg and produced by Film 45, will feature real-life military stories of sacrifice, courage and honor, offering viewers a cathartic remembrance and raw celebration that cannot be found anywhere else. The show will also highlight military demonstrations from the Hyundai Air & Sea Show.

This collaboration continues Hyundai’s partnership with Peter Berg, Film 45 and the U.S. military, who together executed the acclaimed 2017 Super Bowl commercial Operation Better. During the game that year, Hyundai surprised U.S. troops with a virtual reunion with their loved ones and captured it in a 90-second film that aired at the end of the game. The spot was viewed more than 72 million times across various platforms and was deemed the most effective ad in emotional and practical metrics by Adweek (based on Unruly’s EQ Score), among other honors.

Hyundai Doubles its Military IncentiveAs part of its broader commitment to honor military and first responders, Hyundai is doubling its military incentive on all its vehicles for U.S. service men and women. Any active, retired or discharged military personnel and any active first responders and their spouses can receive $1,000 toward the purchase of any new Hyundai vehicle through June 3, 2019. For additional details, please visit Hyundai Military Program and Hyundai First Responders Program.

Hyundai also shows its support for the U.S. Military through a dedicated internal employee resource group called Stars and Stripes. In addition, Hyundai’s Veteran Employment Transition program recruits military veterans for Hyundai dealership parts and service positions. The success of these programs has led to Hyundai being named one of the nation’s Best of the Best Top Veteran-Friendly Companies by U.S. Veterans Magazine in 2019, the sixth time in the last seven years Hyundai earned this honor.

National Salute to America’s HeroesThe National Salute to America’s Heroes presented by Hyundai is a nationwide two-day celebration held on Miami Beach, Florida, featuring the Hyundai Air & Sea Show, Music Explosion presented by Hyundai, and 365 Salute initiative. Held Memorial Day weekend, the National Salute to America’s Heroes presented by Hyundai focuses on honoring and paying tribute to the military and first responders who protect the freedoms of all Americans. For more information, please visit www.USAsalute.com.

Thursday, May 16, 2019

Hyundai CPO Program Praised for Leading Warranty Coverage and Suite of Customer Benefits

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., May 16, 2019 – Hyundai was again named the best non-luxury certified pre-owned (CPO) program by Autotrader, the second consecutive year, and third time in the last four years that it earned the top spot. The recognition acknowledges Hyundai as having the longest manufacturer warranty coverage in the business, among numerous other benefits.

According to Autotrader Executive Editor Brian Moody, “Hyundai’s certified pre-owned program is a significant value and perfect for budget-minded shoppers looking for a no-hassle, affordable car – and that’s exactly why it’s our top non-luxury program again. The length of the powertrain warranty, plus the remainder of the limited bumper-to-bumper new car warranty, plus the 10-year roadside assistance are hard to beat. In fact, if you want a better overall certified program, you’ll need to move up to a luxury brand.”

For 2019, the 10 best non-luxury and luxury CPO programs were identified based on a series of factors, including powertrain warranty length (with a minimum of six years or 100,000 miles of coverage from the original sale date), available inventory, bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage, deductible amount and transferability to future vehicle owners.

Thursday, May 02, 2019

Opportunities available in TC America and IMSA racing series with new Hyundai Veloster N TCR car

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., May 1, 2019 – Copeland Motorsports is expanding its arsenal of race cars today with the acquisition of a Hyundai Veloster N TCR car from Bryan Herta Autosport. Copeland Motorsports is a major player in the SRO Motorsports Group promoted TC America racing series. They are also the current point leaders of the Battery Tender Global MX-5 Cup presented by BF Goodrich. The team will hit the track testing potential drivers within the next two weeks and have targeted participation in their first race shortly thereafter.

“We have been in discussions with Bryan Herta Autosport on acquiring a Hyundai since mid-March and closed the deal late last week,” explained Dean Copeland of Copeland Motorsports. “We have had some interest from several drivers that knew about the expansion in our program, but we tried to keep it quiet for a little while. We are finally ready to tell the motorsports industry and begin our venture back into TCR.”

“The Hyundai Veloster N TCR car as the perfect solution for their growing team,” said Bryan Herta, president and CEO of Bryan Herta Autosport. “We look forward to working closely with the team to provide best in class support and service and I am sure they will be immediately competitive in the already stout TCR class.”

“We are really looking forward to getting on track and up to speed,” Copeland added, “We have several opportunities for drivers interested in getting behind the wheel of the Hyundai Veloster N. We are looking to participating in both TC America and IMSA events in the future. Our first priority is to begin testing immediately.”

Along with customer support from Bryan Herta Autosport, and a list of benefits, also comes the Hyundai contingency award program for all TC America and IMSA events for Hyundai drivers. With money up for grabs for race and podium winners, Copeland Motorsports Hyundai drivers have the opportunity to win performance-based cash paybacks.

With the car on the way to North America, Copeland Motorsports is set to receive their new Hyundai late next week.

Copeland added, “To say that we are excited is an understatement. We have competed in TCR in the past and have been working several avenues to find a way to reengage in the program for the future.”

Thursday, April 18, 2019

NEW YORK, April 18, 2019 – The Hyundai Santa Fe has earned a 2019 Wards 10 Best Interior award from a field of 32 vehicle nominees with new or significantly redesigned interiors. Vehicles were evaluated by eight Wards editors in Southfield, MI, and scored on aesthetics, comfort, fit-and-finish, material quality and ergonomics. While value is a consideration, there is no price cap for entries.

“The Santa Fe’s performance in the marketplace has surpassed expectations and we continue to be honored in receiving further accolades such as Wards 10 Best Interior,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president of Product, Corporate and Digital Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “This recognition by an authoritative media outlet further enhances consumer awareness of Hyundai and its great products.”

With sales of more than 1.6 million units — the Santa Fe represents Hyundai’s strong SUV heritage and continues its success story with the all-new 2019 model. The fourth generation 2019 model builds on this success offering an all-new family-oriented interior, loaded with practical cutting-edge technologies and bold exterior looks.

The Santa Fe interior design combines premium quality with a roomy layout featuring a strong horizontal design theme and enhanced visibility. Premium touches such as the layered, three-dimensional instrument panel and contrasting seat stitching ensures a high level of luxury within the cabin. The Santa Fe’s larger daylight opening enhances the interior’s feeling of openness with generous amounts of natural light.

Details about the 2019 Wards 10 Best Interior winners will be posted on WardsAuto.com the morning of April 18, following the public announcement at the New York International Auto Show. Galleries and profiles about the winners will be posted before the May 9 WardsAuto Interiors Conference.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., April 8, 2019 – Hyundai today released design sketches of its newest SUV, Hyundai Venue. Venue symbolizes a trendy, unique style, perfect for Hyundai’s newest, smallest and most affordable SUV. The vehicle embodies the characteristics of ‘the place to be’, en route to the final destination, wherever that may be.

From everyday workplace activities to weekend fun, Venue is a great fit in accommodating busy lifestyles with an abundance of playful and practical features including seamless safety, versatility and connectivity.

Wednesday, April 03, 2019

Hyundai Introduces Industry-First Incentive to Help Customers Pay Down Their Student Loans by Contributing Up to $900 Toward Their Student Loan Debt

Student Assurance Initially Available from April 1 – September 30 in California and Phoenix, Arizona Dealerships

Student Assurance is a Result of the Better Idea Generator, Hyundai’s Internal Innovation Contest

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., April 2, 2019 – In building on its brand promise to make things better for customers, Hyundai introduces Student Assurance, an industry-first incentive for customers with student loan debt. Student Assurance will help eligible customers free themselves of student loan debt faster by providing a contribution of up to $900 directly toward their student loan with a purchase or lease of a new Hyundai vehicle.

Student Assurance is initially available at Hyundai dealerships in California and the Phoenix, Arizona area from April 1 – September 30, 2019 with plans for a national rollout based on dealer and customer feedback. To learn more about Student Assurance and to find a participating dealer, visit http://www.hyundaistudentassurance.com.

More than 44 million Americans have student loan debt, totaling more than $1.5 trillion[1]. High student loan debt has far-reaching consequences that not only affect those who owe it, but also the economy at large. A significant number of young adults are putting off life-establishing moves that are traditionally made in their 20’s and 30’s, including purchasing or leasing a new vehicle. This delay in acquiring a vehicle can often impact their ability to travel to a job (according to Gallup, 83 percent of Americans rely on a car to get to work every day), take vacations and participate in other life experiences that are facilitated by personal vehicle ownership.

“We recognize that student loan debt is one of the most significant financial stress points for people and we want to help address that issue, while allowing people to take advantage of the many benefits of owning a new vehicle,” said Michael DePaul, director, Retail Operations, Hyundai Motor America. “Making things better is at the heart of everything we do, and that’s why we are directly contributing to helping our customers get out from being under the burden of student loan debt.”

How the Program Works

Hyundai has designed the program to make it easy for customers to take advantage of this industry-first offer and has partnered with Gradifi, a leading provider of student loan benefits, to administer the contributions directly to the customers’ student loan debts.

1. Customer visits HyundaiStudentAssurance.com to check eligibility and is directed to the Hyundai Student Assurance Center to receive a Reward Code2. They purchase or lease an eligible new Hyundai vehicle from a dealer in California or the Phoenix, Arizona area3. They verify their purchase at Hyundai Student Assurance Center using the Reward Code and VIN4. The customer then receives an email from Gradifi with instructions to create an account and register their student loan for verification5. Upon the loan being verified the customer will receive up to a $900 contribution directly to their student loan debt

Hyundai has a long history of having its customers’ backs and responding to cultural or economic factors that are impacting the car industry through its Hyundai Assurance program which consists of Shopper and Owner Assurance (America’s Best Warranty, Road-Side assistance, Blue Link Connected Care and Car Care). Past examples include the innovative job loss protection program during the recession, a trade-in value guarantee and many others that demonstrated Hyundai’s dedication to making things better for its customers. There is no company better suited to introduce a program that will help customers relieve not only one of the top stressors in America, but also one of the top reasons why people hold off purchasing a new car.

Better Idea Generator

Student Assurance is a result of Hyundai’s internal innovation contest, the Better Idea Generator (BIG) that was launched in late 2017. The Better Idea Generator enables Hyundai associates at all levels of the organization to develop and pitch new and innovative ideas. The overall goal of the program is to make innovation inherent throughout the company regardless of seniority or area of responsibility.

Student Assurance was one of 118 ideas that were submitted. To qualify as a BIG idea, the idea must have met at least one of the following conditions: increase sales, provide new revenue, improve quality, enhance the product, and/or improve efficiency. After being reviewed by an expert panel of Hyundai senior leaders, Student Assurance founders Samantha Recchia, an associate in Public Relations and Martha Mejia, an assistant manager in Quality Data Analytics, developed a business plan and presented Student Assurance to the executive team. It was then approved to proceed to the R&D phase for testing and validation, ultimately leading to the pilot program now available.

“It’s a great feeling to work for a company that encourages new ideas from employees at all levels,” said Recchia. “Developing an idea that revolved around alleviating student debt was the first thing that came to mind when I heard about the Better Idea Generator. Martha and I were determined to come up with a solution that would directly impact the pay down of someone’s student loan. Our partner, Gradifi, modified its traditional business model of employee contributions and helped us make the program a reality.”

“It has been a pleasure to lead the launch of an industry-first program that is aimed at helping peers my age with this debt crisis,” said Mejia. “I am humbled by the opportunity that Hyundai has given me to bring forth an idea that has such personal relevance in my own life.”